Smartphones & Tablets | November 28, 2023
Motorola is doing things right with its mid-range catalog, and the company introduced the Motorola Edge 40 Neo last September. It’s a smartphone with a large pOLED display and fast charging that makes it stand out, and it’s now available for a price of 399 euros.
we have analyzed this device to see everything it offers. In this case, it was the Caneel Bay color version, in collaboration with Pantone, as indicated by a badge on the back.
It’s one of those devices that, despite having a 6.55-inch screen, feels comfortable in hand and easy to carry anywhere. In addition, thanks to its MediaTek-signed processor, it not only has 5G but also offers good power performance.
The Motorola Edge 40 Neo is a smartphone that catches the eye. It has some design features that make it stand out from other devices in its price range. We tested the Caneel Bay version, which, like the other two, is in collaboration with Pantone.
On its back, it has a finish in synthetic leather, a rare sight in the current smartphone market and used by few brands. The touch it offers is very good, with the porosity characteristic of this type of material, which also helps the phone grip better with one hand since it is less slippery than other matte-finished materials.
On its rear, we only find the module housing its dual camera, the brand logo, and a badge with a different texture showing the Pantone panel. This color, in particular, is very striking and is also present on the edges of the device, something that suits it very well. It’s worth noting that it does not have a 3.5mm jack, its buttons are located on the right edge, and it has a curved screen, with an added rear curve that enhances ergonomics.
It’s one of those phones that, due to its color and touch, is nice to use without a case. Another detail highlighting the company’s focus on design is that a case of the same color is included in the box. It’s not the typical transparent case that, while appreciated for being included, doesn’t contribute much aesthetically. In this case, it’s the opposite. It’s made from recycled materials, and a small strip protrudes from the front to let us see a bit of this color and protect the device if placed face down.
This device features a reasonably sized panel of 6.55 inches. It is a pOLED display, allowing vibrant colors and pure blacks that not only save some battery but also make the panel stand out when viewing multimedia content or playing games.
Its resolution is Full HD+, as expected for a phone under 400 euros. Its refresh rate reaches 144 Hz, providing great smoothness in interface movements and compatible games, where this figure puts it on par with the screens of some gaming phones.
Its side edges are curved, a feature that continues to be part of the aesthetics and will appeal more to some and less to others. Personally, I am not a fan of this type of front, but it suits this device very well and makes it easier to grip.
We have enjoyed excellent performance from the panel, making it one of the most interesting features of the device, not only because of its high refresh rate but also due to the good results when consuming multimedia content on YouTube and other streaming applications. In addition, its maximum brightness of 1,300 nits means there is no problem looking at its screen in direct sunlight, although it is not the same experience as with high-end devices.
While not a flagship phone, this Motorola Edge 40 Neo boasts excellent performance, allowing the phone to be used for work reliably. Its processor is the MediaTek Dimensity 7030, which also enables 5G connectivity.
In the only version the company sells, this model comes with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storage, competent amounts that will ensure the device doesn’t become obsolete in terms of power over the years.
In our tests, the experience with internet browsing and social media has been very good, also facilitated by its display. The device operates quickly, without stutters or performance-related issues. Its RAM makes multitasking management with many open apps not a problem.
When it comes to gaming, there is no issue with the vast majority of titles like Call of Duty or Rocket League Sideswipe, and in other heavier or less optimized titles, it may be necessary to slightly reduce the graphic settings. Its 5,000 mAh battery provides enough autonomy to finish the day and even start the next day, although lasting more than a day and a half is challenging. However, it features 68W fast charging, and the best part is that its charger is included in the box. It’s one of its best additions.
Its photographic section is simple but sufficient. It has a 50 MP main camera and a wide-angle sensor, which also functions as a macro, with a resolution of 13 MP. In everyday photography, it is a great alternative, working quickly and allowing you to open the camera and take a photo quickly without any problems.
Generally, it has a fairly realistic color, although there are occasions when it slightly oversaturates images, although these are very specific cases. The level of detail is good, and although you can ask for a bit more, the results are usually satisfactory. Its 2x mode is a digital crop since it does not have a telephoto sensor.
Photos with the wide-angle lose some detail, and the color representation is somewhat worse, with a slight foggy effect. The selfie is correct thanks to its 32 MP camera, but undoubtedly, what stands out the most is its selfie camera.
The Motorola Edge 40 Neo is one of the most balanced phones you can buy in its price range, and even at its starting price of 399 euros, it’s a great option. If you can get it at a discounted price, even better, although it’s a good price considering the overall range of features.
It’s not too large, easy to grip, and has a very striking design, especially in this version in collaboration with Pantone. It includes a case of the same color in its box and also the 68W fast charger and cable. In terms of design and battery, it is a success.
Its camera is not the best in the segment, but it is good and can be a great option for those who seek moderate performance in this regard but perfect balance in the rest of its features. Its software, as usual with the brand, is quite clean, and aside from a couple of preinstalled apps that can be easily removed, it does not add anything unnecessary to the operating system.
